It saddens me to see how far we have digressed as a nation and as human beings in just the past few years alone.
As a society, we have become far too negative and polarized, fixated on the trials and misfortunes of others. The daily headlines are littered with less than flattering photos of Kate Gosselin 40 lbs. heavier, the latest break-up or trip to rehab by some Hollywood star, and unabashed criticism of our country’s leadership. The seemly endless stream of “Reality TV” shows that glorify bad behavior and amplify the worst in people, are a further reflection of the moral decay within the fabric of our society.
What has happened to the proud America I grew up in where people went out of their way to help their neighbors and to lift others up? We were once the land of opportunity that served as a beacon of hope for the rest of the world. Where is that America today?
Our daughter, Melanie, has always been an avid reader. However, when she was in the 2nd grade she also became a prolific writer as well. Melanie would take great care to write these amazing little stories, and then meticulously design the covers. When completed, she would delight in sharing her latest “book” with friends, and telling them all about her new story.
At a very early age, our daughter recognized the power of storytelling through her writing. Today as a young adult, she continues to write her story in a different way, as a business professional and through her work with local charities and support groups. She also learned another valuable lesson from her early writing experience. Her life story needed to be her own, and not someone else’s.
Whose story are you writing today?
Zig Ziglar said it best, “Building a better you is the first step to building a better America.” If you want things to improve and to help build a stronger America, then start by working on you. Switch off the reality TV shows and stop buying the newspaper rags you see in the grocery store check-out line that sensationalize the missteps and misfortunes of other people.
It’s time for us to write a new chapter in America’s history to ensure a brighter and more prosperous future for all Americans. This chapter must begin with a more positive outlook and leadership direction from each of us. Our nation requires more Americans to take a proactive leadership role. Are you ready to accept this challenge?
If you are ready to make a difference, then start by improving the quality of your life, and the lives of others, by getting involved. Stop living vicariously through others and allowing the negativity around you to influence your life’s direction. Begin this next chapter by writing your story … and make it a story you will be proud to share with your grandchildren someday.
Enjoy the journey!
COPYRIGHT © 2012 John Carroll